Methods and devices for controlling collateral ventilation

Abstract

Chemical lung volume reduction may be utilized to control collateral ventilation so that trapped air in diseased lungs can be removed. The chemical or therapeutic agent may be locally delivered to the site or sites of highest collateral ventilation utilizing any number of methods including bronchoscopic delivery.

1 . A method for controlling collateral ventilation comprising: 
 (a) the local/regional delivery, via native airways, of an agent for constricting channels between alveoli in a diseased area of the lung; and    (b) venting trapped gases in the diseased area of the lung to decompress the diseased area of the lung.